Abstract

This book explains the complex origins and evolution of Sri Lanka's civil war and the resulting massive civilian displacement. It is an account of frontline conditions during a critical period and an overview of the alternating warfare and ceasefires during the last fifteen years.

William Clarance analyses the scope for protecting civilians in a war zone and its implications for UN policy. He argues that Washington's bullying of the UN ironically proves the points it seeks to demolish: the indispensibility of UN legitimacy and the professionalism of its field agencies.

He urges the need to adopt a more actively engaged role to protect civilians in intrastate conflict, the better to address global problems such as the outflow of refugees and asylum seekers it triggers and the seeds of international terrorism it sows.
'As conflicts mutate, so do the roles of the UN, States and humanitarian agencies in securing the protection of civilians. This book is an original blend of narrative from the field overlaid with the complexities of present day politics and diplomacy. It is a valuable addition to a growing body of work whose goal is more robust safeguards for those caught up in conflict'
Simon Springett, Oxfam GB, Regional Humanitarian Coordinator for the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and the Commonwealth of Independent States
'Boldly traces the efforts of a thoughtful, innovative and deeply committed decision maker to effect an essential extension of the UNHCR mandate. The key issues are relevant now as then, in Sri Lanka and elsewhere'
Dr.Devanesan Nesiah, Former Government Agent and Permanent Secretary
'Bill Clarance's book does what many others cannot do, or fail to do - it puts his own direct experience with those displaced in conflict front and centre in this comprehensive review of UN performance, and in his ideas for change'
Guy S. Goodwin-Gill, Professor of International Refugee Law, Senior Research Fellow, All Souls College, Oxford
'A book such as this will lead the way for more fieldworkers to share their experience of problems and concrete solutions. Such contributions will broaden the much needed debate on international protection in conflict'
Anton Verwey, with UNHCR since 1976 in Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America and HQs in Geneva
'Highly valuable. I know of no other detailed account of the problems that arose over the resettlement of internal refugees in the north and east of the country in 1989-1991'
David Gladstone, former British High Commissioner in Colombo